Economic crises and their effects on public health systems have become a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. This topic’s relevance has increased due to recent global events, making it a popular choice for examiners. In this article, we’ll explore a sample question, provide model essays for different band scores, and offer valuable insights to help you excel in your IELTS writing task.
Analyzing the Question
Let’s examine a typical IELTS Writing Task 2 question on this topic:
Economic crises often lead to reduced funding for public health systems. Some people argue that governments should prioritize other sectors during such times. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
This question requires you to discuss the relationship between economic crises and public health funding, and express your opinion on government priorities during financial difficulties. It’s crucial to address both aspects of the question in your response.
Sample Essay for Band 8-9
Here’s a high-quality essay that could score in the Band 8-9 range:
Economic downturns often force governments to make difficult decisions regarding budget allocations, and public health systems frequently bear the brunt of these cuts. While some argue that other sectors should take precedence during financial crises, I strongly disagree with this viewpoint. In this essay, I will explain why maintaining robust public health systems should remain a top priority, even in challenging economic times.
Firstly, a well-functioning public health system is crucial for a nation’s overall well-being and productivity. When health services are underfunded, it can lead to increased morbidity and mortality rates, which in turn can exacerbate economic problems. For instance, during the 2008 financial crisis, countries that maintained their health budgets, such as Germany and France, experienced faster economic recoveries compared to those that implemented severe cuts, like Greece. This demonstrates that investing in public health can actually contribute to economic stability and growth in the long run.
Moreover, economic crises often coincide with increased demand for public health services. Job losses and financial stress can lead to a rise in mental health issues, substance abuse, and other health problems. Simultaneously, many people lose their private health insurance and become more reliant on public health systems. If these systems are underfunded precisely when they are needed most, it can create a devastating ripple effect throughout society, potentially leading to social unrest and further economic instability.
Additionally, neglecting public health during economic crises can have long-lasting consequences that far outweigh any short-term savings. Reduced preventive care, delayed treatments, and inadequate disease surveillance can result in more severe health issues down the line, ultimately costing the government and society much more. The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has starkly illustrated the importance of having robust public health infrastructure in place to respond to unexpected health crises.
In conclusion, while economic crises undoubtedly present significant challenges for governments, I firmly believe that maintaining adequate funding for public health systems should remain a top priority. The potential consequences of neglecting public health far outweigh any perceived benefits of diverting funds to other sectors. By safeguarding public health, governments can protect their citizens’ well-being and lay the foundation for a faster and more sustainable economic recovery.
(Word count: 349)
Sample Essay for Band 6-7
Here’s an essay that would likely score in the Band 6-7 range:
Economic crises often make governments reduce money for public health systems. Some people think other areas should get more money during these times. I disagree with this idea and think health systems should still be important.
First, good health systems help everyone in a country. If people are healthy, they can work better and help the economy. When health services don’t have enough money, more people get sick. This can make economic problems worse. For example, in the 2008 money crisis, countries that kept spending on health did better than those that didn’t.
Also, during economic problems, more people need public health services. Many people lose their jobs and get stressed, which can make them sick. They also might lose their private health insurance. If public health systems don’t have enough money at these times, it can cause big problems for society.
Lastly, not spending enough on health now can cost more later. If people don’t get check-ups or treatments when they need them, they might get very sick later. This can cost the government more money in the future. The COVID-19 problem showed us why it’s important to have good health systems ready for unexpected problems.
In conclusion, I think governments should keep giving enough money to public health systems even when there are economic problems. This can help protect people’s health and also help the economy get better faster.
(Word count: 234)
Key Writing Tips
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Structure: Both essays follow a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. The Band 8-9 essay has more sophisticated paragraph transitions and a more nuanced argument.
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Vocabulary: The Band 8-9 essay uses more advanced vocabulary and phrases, such as “exacerbate,” “morbidity and mortality rates,” and “ripple effect.” The Band 6-7 essay uses simpler language but still maintains clarity.
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Grammar: The higher-scoring essay demonstrates a wider range of complex sentence structures, while the Band 6-7 essay tends to use simpler constructions.
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Task Response: Both essays address the question fully, but the Band 8-9 essay provides more detailed examples and a more comprehensive argument.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The Band 8-9 essay shows better use of linking words and phrases, creating a more fluid and cohesive text.
Essential Vocabulary
Here are some key terms related to this topic:
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Economic crisis (noun) /ˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk ˈkraɪsɪs/: A situation of serious economic difficulty.
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Public health system (noun phrase) /ˈpʌblɪk helθ ˈsɪstəm/: The network of public services aimed at protecting and improving the health of a community.
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Allocate (verb) /ˈæləkeɪt/: To distribute resources for a particular purpose.
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Morbidity (noun) /mɔːˈbɪdəti/: The rate of disease in a population.
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Preventive care (noun phrase) /prɪˈventɪv keə(r)/: Healthcare services aimed at preventing illnesses.
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Infrastructure (noun) /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃə(r)/: The basic physical and organizational structures needed for the operation of a society or enterprise.
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Exacerbate (verb) /ɪɡˈzæsəbeɪt/: To make a problem or situation worse.
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Ripple effect (noun phrase) /ˈrɪpl ɪˈfekt/: The continuing and spreading results of an event or action.
Conclusion
The impact of economic crises on public health systems is a complex and relevant topic for IELTS Writing Task 2. By understanding the key issues, using appropriate vocabulary, and structuring your essay effectively, you can produce a high-scoring response. Remember to practice writing essays on related topics, such as the long-term effects of healthcare budget cuts or the role of preventive healthcare in economic stability.
We encourage you to try writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below. This practice will help you refine your skills and prepare for success in your IELTS exam. Good luck with your preparation!